Accession Number:

ADA279421

Title:

German Summer Offensive of 1942: An Operational Perspective.

Descriptive Note:

Final rept.,

Corporate Author:

NAVAL WAR COLL NEWPORT RI DEPT OF OPERATIONS

Personal Author(s):

• Dubbe, Debra J.

Report Date:

1994-02-08

Pagination or Media Count:

30.0

Abstract:

The concept of operational art can best be studied through analysis of historical operations and campaigns. The German Summer Offensive of 1942 is analyzed in this paper to identify operational lessons learned. The hope is that joint force planners and commanders will, as a result, better apply the elements of operational design to current situations. Our forces would thus be more efficient and effective in helping our nation achieve national aims. This paper addresses only the operation planned and carried out in the Southern sector of the Eastern Front in 1942. The operational lessons highlighted in this analysis revolve around the following key areas Operational planning should include all forces involved. Logistic support and operational reserves are key to sustained operations in a theater. Altering command relationships during execution should be avoided. Political and military leader personalities have significant impact on all aspects of operational planning and execution. Preparation, Planning, Objectives, Critical factors, Operational, Sustainment, Execution

Descriptors:

• *LESSONS LEARNED
• *MILITARY OPERATIONS
• *MILITARY PLANNING
• *LEADERSHIP
• LOGISTICS
• PREPARATION
• MILITARY FORCES(FOREIGN)
• LOGISTICS SUPPORT
• JOINT MILITARY ACTIVITIES
• MILITARY COMMANDERS
• MILITARY RESERVES
• THEATER LEVEL OPERATIONS
• GERMANY
• MILITARY HISTORY

Subject Categories:

• Military Operations, Strategy and Tactics
• Humanities and History
• Military Forces and Organizations
• Logistics, Military Facilities and Supplies

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE